Shimano GRX RX600 11-Speed Chainset - Single (2024)

FAQs

What is the GRX RX600 equivalent to? ›

Shimano GRX Hierarchy

RX600 equivalent to the 105, 2x11 or 1x11 drivetrain. RX400 equivalent to Tiagra 2x10.

Typical of Shimano, the bottom bracket spindle is the steel 24mm diameter Hollowtech model, so it uses the same external threaded and PressFit bottom bracket options as all Hollowtech systems. This double ring model has a 46.9mm chainline and a Q-factor of 151mm.

You are therefore forced to choose between a GRX 600 or GRX 800 crankset with double chainrings. The main difference between the 600 and 800 series is that the 800 crankset uses Shimano's Hollowtech technology, which makes it 100 grams lighter.

Now with the GRX line Shimano has made a clear distinction between technology intended for paved and unpaved roads. Better yet, it's all inner compatible, so you can mix and match.

50/34 or 52/36 would probably be optimal. The largest GRX rings available are 48/31, which I don't think would make much of a noticeable difference from my 46/30 setup.

The difference between GRX600 and 105 is "variable": some components taken individually might be very similar and there can be overlaps between the ranges (brifters, cassettes, brake calipers,...), but Shimano like to offer their components as part of a system, so GRX offers some combinations that does not exist in 105 ...

What is GRX? GRX is effectively three layers of goupsets from the top spec RX810 (ultegra level), RX600 (105 level) RX400 (Tiagra level). The RX600 & RX400 will appear on OEM equipment on gravel bikes. The RX800 series is available in either mechanical or electronic versions.

Main advantage of GRX over the road group sets is better grip on the shifterhoods and the clutch on the rear derailleur that will control the chain a lot better on bumpy trails.

You should be able to do this no problem! Alternatively, you can use a GRX rear derailleur with road shifters, or the Ultegra RX805 clutch rear derailleur. The only real limitation is that the derailleurs you use have to be either road/gravel or mountain bike derailleurs – you cannot mix these derailleurs.

With Shimano's Hyperglide + cassettes, the shifting of the new GRX groupset is as good as it gets for a mechanical drivetrain. It's easy to shift up or down the cassette under power, and the wider range of the 12-speed 10-45t cassette gives me just enough gear range for the local gravel and trails I ride.

What cassette can I use with GRX? ›

For all-round gravel riding, we'd suggest Shimano's latest 12-speed two chainring setup with a 48/31 crankset and an 11-34 cassette. The same rations are also available in 11-speed GRX RX810.

The 2×11-speed RX600 crank is 46/30 only – if you want the bigger 48/31 option, you'll need the more expensive RX810 2× crank. The 1× RX600 option gets a 40t chainring, while the 1× RX810 crank gives you the choice of 40t or 42t rings.

The GRX 800 groupset is a lighter option and equivalent to Ultegra. The chainset features Shimano's Hollowtech II hollow crank arm technology and a lighter weight, more durable cassette.

The GRX crank gives you the option of using smaller chainrings. The Ultegra can only go down to a 34T. As mentioned, the GRX crank has a wider spindle/offset chainline(2.5mm each side) for clearance with frames with wide stays for wide tires. If the Ultegra fits your frame, it fits.